Effect of different fiber types and sodium silicate solution on gypsum material properties

Gypsum is widely used in Turkey and in the world. However, the biggest problem with Gypsum is its low strength values and susceptibility to water. The aim of this thesis is to improve the physical and mechanical properties of gypsum by reinforcing it with glass, carbon and polypropylene fiber at certain proportions. These fibers were used in different sizes and proportions. Another aim of this thesis is to improve the physical properties of gypsum by using sodium silicate solution. Two different types of gypsum were used in this study. Water absorption, porosity, density, pressure, flexure, hardness and impact toughness tests were performed on samples. Duncan multiple comparison tests were conducted to analyze the data. Results show that series with a length of 24mm and 0.5% carbon fiber has the highest compressive strength (9.1 MPa) and flexure strength (7.2 MPa). According to the statistical analysis, the optimum rates of glass water for compressive and flexure strengths are 6% and 4%, respectively. The optimum rate of glass water to reduce porosity is 6%. Carbon fiber yields the best results for flexure strength, toughness and hardness.